The Milwaukee Bucks announced a roster move on Tuesday, October 6, officially signing former Philadelphia 76ers center Johni Broome and waiving John Butler Jr. The transaction gives Broome a new NBA home as the Bucks seek to improve their depth.
Johni Broome is a second-year big man who was the 35th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. He started his college career at Morehead State but truly broke out over three seasons at Auburn. There, he earned All-American honors and was named the SEC Player of the Year after averaging 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game in the 2024-2025 season.
His rookie year with the 76ers, however, offered limited minutes. Broome appeared in just 11 NBA games, averaging about five minutes per contest. He spent much of the season developing with the Delaware Blue Coats in the NBA G League. Philadelphia traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers in July, but he was waived in late September before landing with Milwaukee.
The Bucks are in a period of evaluation and adjustment. Adding a young, athletic center like Broome provides insurance and competition in the frontcourt. He brings a proven collegiate rebounding and scoring pedigree that the organization hopes can translate.
Waiving John Butler Jr. opens the necessary roster spot. Butler Jr., a forward, had seen limited action. This swap indicates a shift in roster construction, prioritizing a traditional big man who can operate in the paint. The team's full player roster is always available on our roster page for fans tracking these changes.
Broome gets a critical second chance to prove he belongs in the NBA. His immediate task will be to learn the system and compete for rotation minutes behind the established starters.
For the Bucks, the focus remains on building momentum. The schedule ahead is challenging, and integrating a new player quickly will be important. They'll look to Broome to provide energy, rebounding, and a defensive presence. His development could become a valuable subplot for Milwaukee this season as they aim to climb the standings. The team's next steps will be closely watched by fans eager for a return to winning ways.
